US20170363386A1 - Firearm Magazine Band - Google Patents
Firearm Magazine Band Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20170363386A1 US20170363386A1 US15/617,701 US201715617701A US2017363386A1 US 20170363386 A1 US20170363386 A1 US 20170363386A1 US 201715617701 A US201715617701 A US 201715617701A US 2017363386 A1 US2017363386 A1 US 2017363386A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- magazine
- band
- ridge
- front surface
- magazine identifier
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
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Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F41—WEAPONS
- F41C—SMALLARMS, e.g. PISTOLS, RIFLES; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR
- F41C27/00—Accessories; Details or attachments not otherwise provided for
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F41—WEAPONS
- F41A—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS COMMON TO BOTH SMALLARMS AND ORDNANCE, e.g. CANNONS; MOUNTINGS FOR SMALLARMS OR ORDNANCE
- F41A17/00—Safety arrangements, e.g. safeties
- F41A17/34—Magazine safeties
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F41—WEAPONS
- F41A—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS COMMON TO BOTH SMALLARMS AND ORDNANCE, e.g. CANNONS; MOUNTINGS FOR SMALLARMS OR ORDNANCE
- F41A9/00—Feeding or loading of ammunition; Magazines; Guiding means for the extracting of cartridges
- F41A9/61—Magazines
- F41A9/64—Magazines for unbelted ammunition
- F41A9/65—Box magazines having a cartridge follower
Definitions
- the present invention relates to firearm magazines and, more particularly, to a stretchable band used to identify types of ammunition loaded in the magazine and used to identify the owner of the firearm magazine.
- Ammunition magazines for rifles or other long arms often appear to be virtually identical. Unmarked or inadequately marked ammunition magazines left in storage or when used at a firing range, or when actually used in the field, can lead to misidentification of the load in the magazine and/or the owner of the magazine. This may result in catastrophic or even fatal consequences, such as when the magazine contains ammunition that my damage or even destroy the barrel, and injure or kill the firearm user. Many identical rifle magazines can be loaded with several different types of ammunition. This has lead to many firearms accidents, caused by having the wrong ammunition in the magazine. As documented by the National Rifle Association, firing the wrong ammunition in a rifle could result in injury or death to the operator and/or bystanders. https://www.nrablog.com/articles/2017/9/avoiding-the-300blk-ar15-kaboom/.
- a magazine identifier comprises: an endless band, made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle ammunition magazine, comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein the endless band is formed of a material comprising a rubber elasticity; a first ridge and a second ridge protrude from the front surface forming a finger groove in between, that allows the user of the magazine to grip the magazine better and use the placement of multiple bands on the magazine as a way to create an adjustable grip to fit the user's individual size hands or gripping style.
- a magazine identifier comprises: an endless band, made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle magazine, comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein the endless band is formed of a material comprising a rubber elasticity; text is disposed on the first side surface and/or the second side surface, and the pre-printed or personally inscribed text comprises an ammunition type.
- a magazine identifier comprises: an endless band, made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle magazine, comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein the endless band is formed of a material comprising a rubber elasticity; and a specially designed system of bumps, and/or ridges that protrude from the band, located on the side(s) of the band helping the user of the magazine to determine what type of ammunition is loaded in the magazine by touching the protuberance(s) on the band and without having to look at the magazine band.
- This is meant to be used in low light to no light conditions.
- a method of identifying a magazine comprises: providing an endless band, made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle magazine, comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein the endless band is formed of a material comprising a rubber elasticity; and wrapping the endless band around the magazine of a firearm.
- an endless band made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle magazine, comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein the endless band is formed of a material comprising a rubber elasticity; and wrapping the endless band around the magazine of a firearm.
- a writable, non-reflective strip on one or both sides of the band, where the user can note the ammunition load in the magazine, the caliber of bullet in the magazine and/
- a magazine identifier comprises: an endless band, made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle magazine, comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein the endless band is formed of a rubber elasticity; it is also produced in multiple colors, such as but (not limited to) red, blue, black, white, grey, green, pink and the like (and combinations thereof), to help the user easily identify his or her magazine from other rifle owners' magazines.
- a magazine identifier comprises: an endless band, made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle magazine, comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein the endless band is formed of a rubber elasticity; by placing multiple bands on the magazine, the bands are specially designed to protect the magazine from dents and scratches, caused by daily use of the magazine and dropping the magazine.
- a magazine identifier comprises: an endless band, made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle magazine, comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein the endless band is formed of a rubber elasticity; it is designed of non-reflective material or surface coating to cut eliminate or reduce reflective glare that often occurs from metal magazines.
- the coating or other finish on the magazine wears off and exposes the silver color of the metal; the same occurs whenever contact with the ground scratches the magazine.
- the bands reduce the wear and tear on the magazines bluing, that will wear off over time and use, making the magazine shiny in appearance.
- the band may also be used to cover reflective areas that have already appeared on the magazine.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a representative sample of an embodiment of the present invention in use.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the embodiment of the invention depicted in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is a section view thereof, sectioned at plane 3 - 3 in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 4 is a side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 5 is a top plan view thereof.
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention, having a larger writing area.
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing a vertical side ridge used for tactile identification of the contents of the magazine.
- FIG. 8 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image.
- FIG. 9 is a side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 10 is an opposite side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 11 is a front elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 12 is a rear elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing two vertical side ridges used for tactile identification of the contents of the magazine.
- FIG. 14 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image.
- FIG. 15 is a side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 16 is an opposite side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 17 is a front elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 18 is a rear elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing three side ridges used for tactile identification of the contents of the magazine.
- FIG. 20 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image.
- FIG. 21 is a side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 22 is an opposite side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 23 is a front elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 24 is a rear elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing a larger writing area for labeling.
- FIG. 26 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image.
- FIG. 27 is a side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 28 is an opposite side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 29 is a front elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 30 is a rear elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention, the stippling on the flat surface depicting a textured and/or non-reflective surface without any writing area.
- FIG. 32 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image.
- FIG. 33 is a side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 34 is an opposite side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 35 is a front elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 36 is a rear elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing a button-like protuberance used for tactile identification of the contents of the magazine.
- FIG. 38 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image.
- FIG. 39 is a side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 40 is an opposite side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 41 is a front elevation thereof.
- FIG. 42 is a rear elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 43 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing two button-like protuberances used for tactile identification of the contents of the magazine.
- FIG. 44 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image.
- FIG. 45 is a side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 46 is an opposite side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 47 is a front elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 48 is a rear elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 49 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing a block-like protuberance ( 27 ) used for tactile identification of the contents of the magazine.
- FIG. 50 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image.
- FIG. 51 is a side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 52 is an opposite side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 53 is a front elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 54 is a rear elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 55 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing two block-like protuberances ( 27 ) used for tactile identification of the contents of the magazine.
- FIG. 56 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image.
- FIG. 57 is a side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 58 is an opposite side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 59 is a front elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 60 is a rear elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 61 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing a band in use with a belt clip ( 31 ).
- FIG. 62 is a side elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 63 is a front elevation view thereof.
- FIG. 64 is another front elevation view thereof, with the clip on the opposite side.
- the present invention includes a heavy duty, stretchable band made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the cross-section of the rifle magazine around which it is stretched. Once the band is stretched around the magazine, the interior corners of the band contract into adjoining relationship with the magazine, leaving no space between the two. Besides providing a tighter grip on the magazine (than provided by conventional circular bands), the lack of spaces prevents sand and other grit or debris from lodging between the band and magazine to deface the magazine or contribute to malfunctioning.
- the band is used to identify the type of ammunition the magazine carries and/or the owner of the magazine.
- the separation between the bands may enable user of the magazine to have a customized grip on the magazine, to fit his or her hand size.
- the bands may also provide a way to protect the magazine from being damaged by impact such as when, after being discarded on the ground during reloading with another magazine, another user or other moving body compresses the discarded magazine into the ground.
- the band also could muffle the sound of a magazine being dropped during a reload or by accident; this may have life saving significance in combat situations.
- the present invention includes an easy to write on, durable, rubber or silicone elastic band appropriately marked with hand written or pre-printed markings, and/or using bumps, ridges or other protuberances on one or more of the sides.
- the protuberance(s) may be of any dimensions enabling the user to identify the magazine to discern the type of ammunition within, preferably without visual identification. More preferably the protuberances will enable such identification while the user is wearing gloves.
- the bands are placed on an ammunition magazine to prevent confusion as to the contents of the magazine and/or the owner of the magazine, the bands also function to provide an adjustable grip for several purposes.
- the bands may be spaced or positioned by the user to accommodate the size of the user's fingers and/or hands, and/or to accommodate the manner in which the user prefers to grip the magazine (from fingers together to fingers splayed far apart). Unlike any other known devices, this adjustability has enhanced utility for users who prefer to grip the magazine while firing the firearm, such as after the barrel (and associated hand grip stock) becomes hot from repeated firing.
- the positioning of the bands also facilitates gripping the magazine for removal of the magazine for reloading.
- the present invention provides a superior identification method that improves the safety of rifle operation by reducing the possibility of firing the wrong ammunition in a rifle. Firing the wrong ammunition in a rifle could result in injury or death to the operator and/or bystanders.
- the present invention includes a magazine identifier.
- the magazine identifier is an endless band, made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle magazine ( 20 ) having a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim.
- the endless band ( 10 ) is formed of a material with rubber elasticity.
- the endless band may be made of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, silicone or any material with a similar elasticity to rubber.
- the endless band ( 10 ) is placed over a magazine ( 20 ) of a firearm ( 22 ) to identify the type of ammunition carried within the magazine ( 20 ).
- the endless band ( 10 ) may identify the type of ammunition using different methods. For example, text ( 16 ) indicating the type of ammunition may be printed on the first side surface, the second side surface or both.
- the first side surface, the second side surface or both may include a writeable surface ( 30 ) in which a user may write on the endless band ( 10 ) using a pen or marker.
- a plurality of endless bands ( 10 ) may each include different colors, thereby identifying the type of ammunition and/or the owner of the magazine.
- the endless band may contain ridges or round bumps located on one or both sides of the band, to provide a tactile way of identifying the type of ammunition loaded in the magazine.
- the endless band ( 10 ) of the present invention may further include one or more ridges ( 14 ) forming a finger groove in between.
- a first ridge ( 14 ) and a second ridge ( 14 ) protrude from the front surface.
- the first ridge ( 14 ) and the second ridge ( 14 ) may be substantially parallel relative to one another.
- the first ridge ( 14 ) may protrude from the front surface extending from the upper rim, and the second ridge ( 14 ) may protrude from the front surface extending from the lower rim.
- the finger grooves allow users to easily grip the magazine ( 20 ).
- a plurality of endless bands ( 10 ) may form a plurality of finger grooves, allowing a user to easily grasp the magazine ( 20 ).
- the endless band ( 10 ) includes a textured surface ( 12 ).
- the textured surface ( 12 ) adds additional grip to the magazine ( 20 ) when the elastic bands ( 10 ) are placed on the magazine ( 20 ).
- the textured surface ( 12 ) may be disposed on the front surface, rear surface, and first side surface and/or second side surface.
- the textured surface ( 12 ) may thereby be placed all over the elastic band ( 10 ) except for the inner surface ( 11 ) and/or the writing surface ( 18 ).
- the writing surface ( 18 ) and/or the inner surface ( 11 ) may be smooth.
- the present invention may further include a method of identifying a magazine ( 20 ).
- the method may include the following steps: providing an endless band ( 10 ), made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle magazine ( 20 ), comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein the endless band ( 10 ) is formed of a material comprising a rubber elasticity; wrapping the endless band ( 10 ) around the magazine ( 20 ) of a firearm ( 22 ); and printing text ( 16 ) on the first side surface and/or the second side surface, wherein the text ( 16 ) comprises an ammunition type of the magazine and/or an identification of the owner of the magazine.
- one embodiment may include a single vertical ridge ( 23 ) on one or both sides ( 26 ) of the band, for tactile identification purposes.
- the exterior of the band may be covered with non-reflective coating, and/or have a textured finish that eliminates or reduces reflection.
- another embodiment may include two vertical ridges ( 23 ) on one or both sides ( 26 ) of the band, for tactile identification purposes, with the same non-reflective surface treatment. The same goes for the embodiment depicted in FIG. 19 having three vertical ridges ( 23 ).
- one embodiment may include a single button-like rounded protuberance on one or both sides of the band, for tactile identification purposes.
- one embodiment may include two button-like rounded protuberances on one or both sides of the band, for tactile identification purposes.
- one embodiment may include a square block-like protuberance ( 27 ) on one or both sides of the band, for tactile identification purposes.
- one embodiment may include two block-like protuberances on one or both sides of the band, for tactile identification purposes.
- the exterior of the band may also be covered with non-reflective coating, and/or have a textured finish that eliminates or reduces reflection.
- another embodiment may include two such buttons ( 25 ) on one or both sides of the band, for tactile identification purposes, with the same non-reflective surface treatment.
- a means of securing the band (and associated magazine) to the user or storage location may also be included.
- a clip for securing the band (and associated magazine) to a thin panel such as the belt or pocket of a user may be used separately with the band, or it may be attached to or made integral with the band. The same goes for other means for securing the band (and associated magazine) to a location such as the pocket formed on the inside of an automobile door.
- the invention further includes the method of using the band or system.
- the method of identifying a magazine may comprise (include) the steps of:
- the method may also include providing a plurality of said bands, each separated to accommodate a separate finger of the user in an arrangement preferred by the user.
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Abstract
Description
- This application is a continuation-in-part application claiming claims the benefit of priority of co-pending U.S. utility patent application Ser. No. 15/073,904 filed Mar. 18, 2016, which claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application No. 62/134,996, filed Mar. 18, 2015, the contents of both of which are herein incorporated by reference.
- The present invention relates to firearm magazines and, more particularly, to a stretchable band used to identify types of ammunition loaded in the magazine and used to identify the owner of the firearm magazine.
- Ammunition magazines for rifles or other long arms often appear to be virtually identical. Unmarked or inadequately marked ammunition magazines left in storage or when used at a firing range, or when actually used in the field, can lead to misidentification of the load in the magazine and/or the owner of the magazine. This may result in tragic or even fatal consequences, such as when the magazine contains ammunition that my damage or even destroy the barrel, and injure or kill the firearm user. Many identical rifle magazines can be loaded with several different types of ammunition. This has lead to many firearms accidents, caused by having the wrong ammunition in the magazine. As documented by the National Rifle Association, firing the wrong ammunition in a rifle could result in injury or death to the operator and/or bystanders. https://www.nrablog.com/articles/2016/9/avoiding-the-300blk-ar15-kaboom/.
- Also many firearms with suppressors attached require sub-sonic ammunition in order to keep the sound level low enough so as to not need hearing protection. Sub-sonic ammunition, once loaded in the magazine, looks identical to super-sonic ammunition. At this date and time, once a magazine is loaded, the common way to know what ammunition is in the magazine and who owns the magazine is to use colored tape, or to put a colored mark on the magazine base plate, or to employ homemade stickers, markings using colored ink or pencil, and similar improvisational systems that can either be easily removed or marked over, fall off, not be seen from the side of the magazine, or unaccountably disappear and leave a debris-catching residue on the magazine.
- As can be seen, there is a need for an improvement in identifying the type of ammunition in a firearm magazine and the owner of that magazine.
- In one aspect of the present invention, a magazine identifier comprises: an endless band, made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle ammunition magazine, comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein the endless band is formed of a material comprising a rubber elasticity; a first ridge and a second ridge protrude from the front surface forming a finger groove in between, that allows the user of the magazine to grip the magazine better and use the placement of multiple bands on the magazine as a way to create an adjustable grip to fit the user's individual size hands or gripping style.
- In another aspect of the present invention, a magazine identifier comprises: an endless band, made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle magazine, comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein the endless band is formed of a material comprising a rubber elasticity; text is disposed on the first side surface and/or the second side surface, and the pre-printed or personally inscribed text comprises an ammunition type.
- In another aspect of the present invention, a magazine identifier comprises: an endless band, made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle magazine, comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein the endless band is formed of a material comprising a rubber elasticity; and a specially designed system of bumps, and/or ridges that protrude from the band, located on the side(s) of the band helping the user of the magazine to determine what type of ammunition is loaded in the magazine by touching the protuberance(s) on the band and without having to look at the magazine band. This is meant to be used in low light to no light conditions.
- In another aspect of the present invention, a method of identifying a magazine comprises: providing an endless band, made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle magazine, comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein the endless band is formed of a material comprising a rubber elasticity; and wrapping the endless band around the magazine of a firearm. Included is a writable, non-reflective strip on one or both sides of the band, where the user can note the ammunition load in the magazine, the caliber of bullet in the magazine and/or the name of the owner of the magazine.
- In another aspect of the present invention, a magazine identifier comprises: an endless band, made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle magazine, comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein the endless band is formed of a rubber elasticity; it is also produced in multiple colors, such as but (not limited to) red, blue, black, white, grey, green, pink and the like (and combinations thereof), to help the user easily identify his or her magazine from other rifle owners' magazines.
- In another aspect of the present invention, a magazine identifier comprises: an endless band, made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle magazine, comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein the endless band is formed of a rubber elasticity; by placing multiple bands on the magazine, the bands are specially designed to protect the magazine from dents and scratches, caused by daily use of the magazine and dropping the magazine.
- In another aspect of the present invention, a magazine identifier comprises: an endless band, made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle magazine, comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein the endless band is formed of a rubber elasticity; it is designed of non-reflective material or surface coating to cut eliminate or reduce reflective glare that often occurs from metal magazines. After metal magazines are used often and/or thrown to the ground during training or other exercises, the coating or other finish on the magazine wears off and exposes the silver color of the metal; the same occurs whenever contact with the ground scratches the magazine. The bands reduce the wear and tear on the magazines bluing, that will wear off over time and use, making the magazine shiny in appearance. The band may also be used to cover reflective areas that have already appeared on the magazine.
- These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings, description and claims.
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a representative sample of an embodiment of the present invention in use. -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the embodiment of the invention depicted inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a section view thereof, sectioned at plane 3-3 inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 is a side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 5 is a top plan view thereof. -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention, having a larger writing area. -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing a vertical side ridge used for tactile identification of the contents of the magazine. -
FIG. 8 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image. -
FIG. 9 is a side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 10 is an opposite side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 11 is a front elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 12 is a rear elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing two vertical side ridges used for tactile identification of the contents of the magazine. -
FIG. 14 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image. -
FIG. 15 is a side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 16 is an opposite side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 17 is a front elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 18 is a rear elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing three side ridges used for tactile identification of the contents of the magazine. -
FIG. 20 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image. -
FIG. 21 is a side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 22 is an opposite side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 23 is a front elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 24 is a rear elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing a larger writing area for labeling. -
FIG. 26 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image. -
FIG. 27 is a side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 28 is an opposite side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 29 is a front elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 30 is a rear elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention, the stippling on the flat surface depicting a textured and/or non-reflective surface without any writing area. -
FIG. 32 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image. -
FIG. 33 is a side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 34 is an opposite side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 35 is a front elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 36 is a rear elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing a button-like protuberance used for tactile identification of the contents of the magazine. -
FIG. 38 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image. -
FIG. 39 is a side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 40 is an opposite side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 41 is a front elevation thereof. -
FIG. 42 is a rear elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 43 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing two button-like protuberances used for tactile identification of the contents of the magazine. -
FIG. 44 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image. -
FIG. 45 is a side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 46 is an opposite side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 47 is a front elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 48 is a rear elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 49 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing a block-like protuberance (27) used for tactile identification of the contents of the magazine. -
FIG. 50 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image. -
FIG. 51 is a side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 52 is an opposite side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 53 is a front elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 54 is a rear elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 55 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing two block-like protuberances (27) used for tactile identification of the contents of the magazine. -
FIG. 56 is a top plan view thereof; the bottom plan view is a mirror image. -
FIG. 57 is a side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 58 is an opposite side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 59 is a front elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 60 is a rear elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 61 is a perspective view of a representative sample of another embodiment of the present invention showing a band in use with a belt clip (31). -
FIG. 62 is a side elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 63 is a front elevation view thereof. -
FIG. 64 is another front elevation view thereof, with the clip on the opposite side. - The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention, since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims.
- The present invention includes a heavy duty, stretchable band made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the cross-section of the rifle magazine around which it is stretched. Once the band is stretched around the magazine, the interior corners of the band contract into adjoining relationship with the magazine, leaving no space between the two. Besides providing a tighter grip on the magazine (than provided by conventional circular bands), the lack of spaces prevents sand and other grit or debris from lodging between the band and magazine to deface the magazine or contribute to malfunctioning.
- Multiple bands are spaced around a magazine in a way to fit the particular user's hand or gripping style. The band is used to identify the type of ammunition the magazine carries and/or the owner of the magazine. The separation between the bands (if any) may enable user of the magazine to have a customized grip on the magazine, to fit his or her hand size. The bands may also provide a way to protect the magazine from being damaged by impact such as when, after being discarded on the ground during reloading with another magazine, another user or other moving body compresses the discarded magazine into the ground. The band also could muffle the sound of a magazine being dropped during a reload or by accident; this may have life saving significance in combat situations.
- The present invention includes an easy to write on, durable, rubber or silicone elastic band appropriately marked with hand written or pre-printed markings, and/or using bumps, ridges or other protuberances on one or more of the sides. The protuberance(s) may be of any dimensions enabling the user to identify the magazine to discern the type of ammunition within, preferably without visual identification. More preferably the protuberances will enable such identification while the user is wearing gloves.
- Although the bands are placed on an ammunition magazine to prevent confusion as to the contents of the magazine and/or the owner of the magazine, the bands also function to provide an adjustable grip for several purposes. The bands may be spaced or positioned by the user to accommodate the size of the user's fingers and/or hands, and/or to accommodate the manner in which the user prefers to grip the magazine (from fingers together to fingers splayed far apart). Unlike any other known devices, this adjustability has enhanced utility for users who prefer to grip the magazine while firing the firearm, such as after the barrel (and associated hand grip stock) becomes hot from repeated firing. The positioning of the bands also facilitates gripping the magazine for removal of the magazine for reloading.
- Since many ammunition types and calibers may be loaded in the same magazine, the present invention provides a superior identification method that improves the safety of rifle operation by reducing the possibility of firing the wrong ammunition in a rifle. Firing the wrong ammunition in a rifle could result in injury or death to the operator and/or bystanders.
- Referring to
FIGS. 1 through 13 , the present invention includes a magazine identifier. The magazine identifier is an endless band, made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle magazine (20) having a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim. The endless band (10) is formed of a material with rubber elasticity. For example, the endless band may be made of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, silicone or any material with a similar elasticity to rubber. The endless band (10) is placed over a magazine (20) of a firearm (22) to identify the type of ammunition carried within the magazine (20). - The endless band (10) may identify the type of ammunition using different methods. For example, text (16) indicating the type of ammunition may be printed on the first side surface, the second side surface or both. In certain embodiments, the first side surface, the second side surface or both may include a writeable surface (30) in which a user may write on the endless band (10) using a pen or marker. In certain embodiments, a plurality of endless bands (10) may each include different colors, thereby identifying the type of ammunition and/or the owner of the magazine. In other embodiments the endless band may contain ridges or round bumps located on one or both sides of the band, to provide a tactile way of identifying the type of ammunition loaded in the magazine.
- The endless band (10) of the present invention may further include one or more ridges (14) forming a finger groove in between. For example, a first ridge (14) and a second ridge (14) protrude from the front surface. The first ridge (14) and the second ridge (14) may be substantially parallel relative to one another. The first ridge (14) may protrude from the front surface extending from the upper rim, and the second ridge (14) may protrude from the front surface extending from the lower rim. The finger grooves allow users to easily grip the magazine (20). For example, as illustrated in
FIG. 1 , a plurality of endless bands (10) may form a plurality of finger grooves, allowing a user to easily grasp the magazine (20). - In certain embodiments, the endless band (10) includes a textured surface (12). The textured surface (12) adds additional grip to the magazine (20) when the elastic bands (10) are placed on the magazine (20). The textured surface (12) may be disposed on the front surface, rear surface, and first side surface and/or second side surface. The textured surface (12) may thereby be placed all over the elastic band (10) except for the inner surface (11) and/or the writing surface (18). The writing surface (18) and/or the inner surface (11) may be smooth.
- The present invention may further include a method of identifying a magazine (20). The method may include the following steps: providing an endless band (10), made in a shape having a rectangular cross-section that matches the shape of a rifle magazine (20), comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein the endless band (10) is formed of a material comprising a rubber elasticity; wrapping the endless band (10) around the magazine (20) of a firearm (22); and printing text (16) on the first side surface and/or the second side surface, wherein the text (16) comprises an ammunition type of the magazine and/or an identification of the owner of the magazine.
- As depicted in
FIG. 7 , one embodiment may include a single vertical ridge (23) on one or both sides (26) of the band, for tactile identification purposes. The exterior of the band may be covered with non-reflective coating, and/or have a textured finish that eliminates or reduces reflection. As depicted inFIG. 13 , another embodiment may include two vertical ridges (23) on one or both sides (26) of the band, for tactile identification purposes, with the same non-reflective surface treatment. The same goes for the embodiment depicted inFIG. 19 having three vertical ridges (23). - Other protuberances and arrangements thereof providing tactile identification may be included. As depicted in
FIG. 37 , one embodiment may include a single button-like rounded protuberance on one or both sides of the band, for tactile identification purposes. As depicted inFIG. 43 , one embodiment may include two button-like rounded protuberances on one or both sides of the band, for tactile identification purposes. As depicted inFIG. 49 , one embodiment may include a square block-like protuberance (27) on one or both sides of the band, for tactile identification purposes. As depicted inFIG. 55 , one embodiment may include two block-like protuberances on one or both sides of the band, for tactile identification purposes. - The exterior of the band may also be covered with non-reflective coating, and/or have a textured finish that eliminates or reduces reflection. As depicted in
FIG. 43 , another embodiment may include two such buttons (25) on one or both sides of the band, for tactile identification purposes, with the same non-reflective surface treatment. - A means of securing the band (and associated magazine) to the user or storage location may also be included. For example, a clip for securing the band (and associated magazine) to a thin panel such as the belt or pocket of a user may be used separately with the band, or it may be attached to or made integral with the band. The same goes for other means for securing the band (and associated magazine) to a location such as the pocket formed on the inside of an automobile door.
- Besides the band and band system disclosed herein, the invention further includes the method of using the band or system. Most generally, the method of identifying a magazine may comprise (include) the steps of:
-
- (a) providing an elastomeric band defining a cavity having a rectangular cross-section sized to snugly capture the rifle magazine having corresponding rectangular cross-section dimensions, said band comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, an inner surface, an upper rim and a lower rim, wherein a first ridge protrudes from the front surface upper rim and a second ridge protrudes from the front surface lower rim, together forming a finger groove in between;
- (b) stretching the band around the magazine; and
- (c) printing text on one of the first side surface and the second side surface, wherein the text comprises an ammunition type of the magazine. The band may also have one or more protuberances upstanding from one or both sides, for identification purposes.
- The method may also include providing a plurality of said bands, each separated to accommodate a separate finger of the user in an arrangement preferred by the user.
- It should be understood, of course, that the foregoing relates to exemplary embodiments of the invention and that modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US15/617,701 US10101117B2 (en) | 2015-03-18 | 2017-06-08 | Firearm magazine band |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201562134996P | 2015-03-18 | 2015-03-18 | |
US15/073,904 US20160273866A1 (en) | 2015-03-18 | 2016-03-18 | Firearm magazine identifier |
US15/617,701 US10101117B2 (en) | 2015-03-18 | 2017-06-08 | Firearm magazine band |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US15/073,904 Continuation-In-Part US20160273866A1 (en) | 2015-03-18 | 2016-03-18 | Firearm magazine identifier |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20170363386A1 true US20170363386A1 (en) | 2017-12-21 |
US10101117B2 US10101117B2 (en) | 2018-10-16 |
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US15/617,701 Expired - Fee Related US10101117B2 (en) | 2015-03-18 | 2017-06-08 | Firearm magazine band |
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US (1) | US10101117B2 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20220260331A1 (en) * | 2021-02-18 | 2022-08-18 | Robert H. Meier | Loaded Chamber Warning Band |
Family Cites Families (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5526600A (en) * | 1994-09-22 | 1996-06-18 | Blount, Inc. | Cartridge magazine capacity extender |
US20040200111A1 (en) * | 2003-03-05 | 2004-10-14 | Horn Paul Thomas | Magazine clip exterior housing system |
US8793914B2 (en) * | 2009-09-23 | 2014-08-05 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Weapon magazine boot |
US8485405B2 (en) * | 2010-10-18 | 2013-07-16 | Lineweight Llc | Ammunition magazine carrying device |
US9459072B2 (en) * | 2014-09-04 | 2016-10-04 | Charles Kafer | Magazine attached firearm grip |
-
2017
- 2017-06-08 US US15/617,701 patent/US10101117B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20220260331A1 (en) * | 2021-02-18 | 2022-08-18 | Robert H. Meier | Loaded Chamber Warning Band |
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US10101117B2 (en) | 2018-10-16 |
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